Rights. Justice. Action: Advancing Women’s Empowerment for Inclusive Development

International Women’s Day, observed on 8th March each year, is an occasion to celebrate the achievements of women and renew our commitment to gender equality. The theme for 2026 — “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls” — reminds us that real progress requires more than recognition. It calls for concrete efforts to ensure that every woman and girl enjoys equal rights, dignity, and opportunities.Across communities, women play a vital role in shaping development. They are caregivers, educators, workers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who contribute significantly to the well-being of families and societies. From nurturing children and supporting household stability to participating in local decision-making, women’s contributions form the foundation of strong and resilient communities.

In many rural and marginalised areas, women also serve as the backbone of essential community services. Creche workers, ASHA workers, and Anganwadi workers play a crucial role in supporting child development, maternal health, nutrition, and community awareness. Their work ensures that children receive early care and nutrition, mothers access health services, and communities become more informed about health and well-being. Often working with limited resources, these women demonstrate dedication, compassion, and leadership at the grassroots level.

Yet, despite their contributions, many women and girls continue to face barriers that restrict their access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and decision-making spaces. Social discrimination, poverty, and unequal access to resources continue to affect women’s lives, particularly in underserved communities. Addressing these challenges requires focused efforts that uphold women’s rights, ensure justice, and promote meaningful action.

Development organisations play an important role in creating opportunities for women to participate fully in community life. Through initiatives such as education support, livelihood promotion, awareness building, and leadership development, women can gain the confidence, knowledge, and resources needed to improve their lives and support their families.

In this journey, Niyatee Foundation continues to work towards inclusive development by supporting women and girls across communities. By strengthening community institutions, encouraging women’s participation in local governance, promoting access to essential services, and supporting livelihood opportunities, the organisation strives to create an environment where women’s voices are heard and valued. At the same time, it also focuses on skilling young women so that they can access dignified employment opportunities in different sectors, enabling them to move towards economic independence and a more secure future.

Women’s collectives, self-help groups, and grassroots leadership platforms often become powerful spaces for change. When women come together, they not only improve their own economic and social conditions but also contribute to better health, education, and well-being within their communities. Empowered women become role models who inspire young girls to pursue education, leadership, and independence.

The theme “Rights. Justice. Action.” calls on governments, civil society organisations, communities, and individuals to work together to remove barriers that prevent women from achieving their full potential. Gender equality is not only a women’s issue; it is a shared responsibility and a key driver of sustainable development.

As we observe International Women’s Day, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and dedication of women who continue to shape positive change. At the same time, it is a reminder that ensuring rights, justice, and opportunities for every woman and girl is essential for building a more inclusive and equitable society.

Because when women’s rights are protected, their work is valued, and their aspirations are supported, development becomes stronger, more meaningful, and sustainable for all.

 

Nutritional Recovery and Developmental Improvement of Kritika Singh: A Success Story

 

Breaking the Cycle of Malnutrition: A Story of Hope from Rural Odisha

Kritika, daughter of Deepa Singh and Sudarmohan Singh, was registered at Jayabila Anganwadi Centre under Shyamakhunta Block even before her birth. During pregnancy, her mother Deepa experienced domestic violence and was compelled to seek shelter at her parental home in Malihata village under Morada Block for safety and support. This sudden relocation disrupted the continuity of care, resulting in missed antenatal services, routine health check-ups, and essential immunization during pregnancy.

On 15 April 2024, Deepa gave birth to a baby girl, Kritika, with a low birth weight of 1.6 kg. Due to the lack of proper maternal healthcare during pregnancy, the child had a weak start to life. After birth, Kritika remained underweight and physically weak, and her developmental milestones were delayed.

After relocating, and upon Deepa’s request, Kritika was enrolled at the local Anganwadi Centre in Malihata under ICDS services to access Take Home Ration (THR) and other entitlements. At the time of enrolment, 17-month-old Kritika was identified as severely underweight. Growth monitoring records maintained at the crèche centre indicate regular and consistent tracking of her weight.

·         26 August 2025 (17 months): 5.60 kg

• 15 September 2025 (18 months): 6.20 kg
• 20 October 2025 (19 months): 6.95 kg
• 29 November 2025 (20 months): 7.00 kg
• 30 December 2025 (21 months): 7.40 kg
• 30 January 2026 (22 months): 7.65 kg
• 12 February 2026 (23 months): 8.95 kg

  

The records of 17 – 23 months demonstrate overall improvement in nutritional status after regular attendance and supplementary nutrition support through the crèche and ICDS services. Despite minor fluctuations, the trend reflects gradual weight gain compared to her earlier condition.

In addition to physical growth, notable behavioral and developmental improvements have been observed. Earlier, the child was often irritable and dependent solely on her mother, with minimal interaction with others. Regular participation in crèche activities has provided social exposure and structured care. She now interacts with other children, plays actively, and eats more independently. Care providers have observed clear improvements in her alertness, emotional stability, and social engagement.

The case reveals the effectiveness of community-based childcare and nutrition interventions in addressing vulnerabilities arising from social distress and limited access to early healthcare. It is noted that Kritika has not yet completed her immunization schedule. With proper coordination with the local health department, she will be covered under the full immunization programme and continue to receive regular growth monitoring.

This case highlights the importance of integrated ICDS and community crèche services in supporting high-risk children. Continued institutional follow-up and strong interdepartmental coordination will help the child achieve normal growth and developmental milestones.

 

Empowering Dreams: Meenakshi Gupta's Journey to self-reliance

 

From the heart of Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Meenakshi Gupta’s story begins—a tale of determination and resilience against the odds. At 21, Meenakshi's life took unexpected turns, from being the only child of a farmer to navigating the complexities of marriage and early motherhood. Despite these challenges, her quest for education and personal growth never wavered.

Meenakshi's journey to self-reliance began when she faced a significant roadblock: her family’s reluctance to support her educational ambitions. Her husband and mother-in-law, caught in traditional constraints, did not recognize the value of her aspirations. Despite this, Meenakshi remained steadfast in her desire for a better future.

The turning point came when a distant relative introduced her to the Niyatee Foundation, a hopeful beacon in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The foundation, supported by WSC, offers skill training programs to empower individuals like Meenakshi. With her father by her side, she made the courageous decision to travel to Bhubaneswar to explore this opportunity.

At Niyatee Foundation’s head office, Meenakshi was introduced to a world of possibilities. Over the next two months, she immersed herself in a skill training program that enhanced her communication abilities and introduced her to the intricacies of mutual fund distribution. This training was not just educational; it was transformational, equipping Meenakshi with the tools she needed to carve out a new path for herself.

The foundation's support extended beyond training. They played a crucial role in helping Meenakshi secure her first job with Tech Mahindra, a prestigious company based in Bhubaneswar. However, her struggles were far from over. The process of documentation proved to be another hurdle. Her husband’s reluctance to assist with linking her Aadhaar card number to her mobile phone created a significant barrier.

Understanding the gravity of the situation, the Niyatee Foundation team stepped in. They took Meenakshi to the Jan Seva Kendra to resolve the issue with her Aadhaar card. This intervention was not just about completing paperwork; it was about removing obstacles from her path to independence. 

With her documentation in order, Meenakshi joined Tech Mahindra, marking a new chapter in her life. She found accommodation in a nearby women’s hostel, which provided her with the stability she needed to focus on her job and personal growth. Meenakshi led an independent life for the first time, supporting her family while building her future.

Meenakshi Gupta’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of supportive institutions like the Niyatee Foundation. Her story highlights the importance of providing opportunities for skill development and the crucial role of community support in overcoming personal and societal challenges.

Today, Meenakshi stands as a symbol of hope and strength for all such hapless girls mired in social hurdles. Her journey from a small village in Kanpur to a successful career in Bhubaneswar inspires many. It serves as a reminder that with the right support and determination, individuals can overcome even the most daunting obstacles and achieve their dreams.

Celebrating Independence Day

 Celebrating Independence Day is a matter of pride and honor for any educational institution of our country. It is celebrated in joy and rapture with colorful hue and in a jubilant mood. It is an annual event that is observed in all parts of the country. The main attraction in this occasion is the collective participation of the young students who are aspired for a new beginning with new hope and ambition. They think about the future prospective of the nation and the direction in which the nation leads in and thereby try to build a nation of their  choice. Students are so much zealous that they celebrate the day as a festival . The day before independence day or pre- independence day is celebrated by marching with flag in the town or village. This is a new idea borne in the young minds. It proves that this day is not a day like any other day. After the program of flag march, students are obliged to learn the morality behind the observation of the day. It paves path for the following day .

 

Teacher's Day Celebration at Dalmia College(Sudakshya Plus)

 

On 5th Sep 2023, Sudakshya plus(Niyatee Foundation) organized teacher's day celebration that was held in Dalmia college, Rajgangpur Block. The chief guest was Shri Rabindra Sethi ,BDO of Kutra. Dr Hiren Lugun, Principal of Dalmia College was also invited. The faculty team of Sudakshya Plus -Ashish Thakurta, Jitendra Kumar Patel, Ranjit Kumar Parija, and Project Manager Miss.  Sunayani  Samartha, Jitu Prakash Mallik, Reesha Naaz, Miss Jigyasini Barik, Rani Chhetri were also present. Motivational speaker Mr Bibhuti Bhusan Das was also invited. The faculty team along with the coordinators of Sudakshya Plus decorated the class with flowers and lights. The chief guest lights the lamp, highly praised the program and also wished the students for a bright future. The program started with a welcome song by the students.

The program was hosted by Rani Chhetri. Reesha Naaz faculty of Sudakshya plus gave a brief presentation of the aims and objectives of Sudakshya Plus and also its advantages. The motivational speaker also motivated and encouraged the students to utilize the benefits of Sudakshya Plus to achieve success, by his speech. Some college lectures like Dr patel, Shri R k Parija, J K Patel also motivated the students with their speech by sharing their career experience.

In the end the host requested the chief guest to express his thoughts regarding the event. After that our project manager Miss Sunayani  Samartha shared the aims and objectives of Sudakshya Plus. After that the principal ended the programme by encouraging the students to work hard if they want to make a strong and good career in life. At last some of the students were rewarded with study kits by the chief guest and principal. All the people who attended the celebration enjoyed it most. In fact, it was a memorable day for all of us.

Independence Day or pre-independence day is celebrated at Sudakshya Bonai Center

 

Celebrating Independence Day is a matter of pride and honor for any educational institution of our country. It is celebrated in joy and rapture with colorful hue and in a jubilant mood. It is an annual event that is observed in all parts of the country. The main attraction in this occasion is the collective participation of the young students who are aspired for a new beginning with new hope and ambition. They think about the future prospective of the nation and the direction in which the nation leads in and thereby try to build a nation of their choice. Students are so much zealous that they celebrate the day as a festival. The day before Independence Day or pre-independence day is celebrated by marching with flag in the town or village. This is a new idea borne in the young minds. It proves that this day is not a day like any other day. After the program of flag march, students are obliged to learn the morality behind the observation of the day. It paves path for the following day.